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CCTV installation is an investment, and like any investment, it can help you understand the cost in advance. How much does it cost to install a video surveillance system? It depends on the situation.
CCTV system is not for everyone. Every home and business are unique and requires unique security solutions. The cost of installing a small camera system in your home is much higher than a commercial 20 camera system.
There are four types of costs associated with video surveillance systems:
- hardware, software, installation, and maintenance.
Understanding them will help you calculate the cost of installing a system in your home or office. So, how much does it cost to install a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system?
The average cost is approximately US $1,500. The price depends on the type of equipment, the size of the system, and many other factors.
The following are some additional price factors that increase the total cost:
- Installation type: DIY or professional
- Security requirements and number of cameras
- Camera type: indoor or outdoor
- System monitoring
- System complexity
There are so many CCTV systems on the market. The cost of the monitoring system is not always easy, but we are here to crack it. Let’s find out more!
Factors Affecting Cost of CCTV Cameras
1# Camera Type
Indoor cameras are generally lower in cost than that of outdoor cameras because they are usually smaller, do not need to be weatherproof, and usually have limited range and resolution. Cameras used outside the home usually require better visibility and durability, which can deter potential criminal activity.
The position represents the upgrade of the necessary equipment such as wide-angle lens, night vision, waterproof, camouflage, etc. More cameras with higher resolution require larger DVRs and NVRs. Consultation with licensed professional installers will enable you to better understand your needs. You will need it whenever and wherever possible.
2# Installation Type
Generally, self-installation is cheaper than professional installation. Although the do-it-yourself installation can be immediately cheaper, you may end up paying more. For example, if you have purchased the wrong hardware or the system is not installed correctly, you may have to pay more to solve this problem.
When you hire an expert, you must pay for the training, tools, experience, and industry licenses required to do the job correctly. In addition, professional installers usually install higher quality products, and they know that there will be no problems in the next few years.
3# Monitoring of System
The monitoring service adds an extra layer of protection to your home security system, with prices ranging from US $30 to US $65 per month, and the initial installation fee is US $0 to US $200. Yes, companies that provide remote video surveillance or CCTV can see your camera. But set up data protection. Smart camera and motion detection are used to protect your privacy. If the motion detector detects a potential threat, it will notify the security center and call the authorities. Please note that this service is not part of your regular home security monitoring.
Most monitoring systems today are wireless and provide smart home functions such as remote lighting, heating, and even door lock control. For this additional monthly fee, your home will be monitored 24 hours a day, and any violations will be notified to you and the authorities including fire.
4# Security Requirements & Number of Cameras
The size and security requirements of the home or office play an important role in determining the total cost of installation. Determine the number and type of cameras you need. The more cameras, the higher the installation cost. For larger areas, you may also need a higher quality camera with better resolution and better field of view.
Areas with unique angles or unusual lighting may require different types of cameras, such as providing higher resolution, night vision, motion detection, and other enhancements. In addition to the cost of equipment, the cost of professionally installing each camera is between US $100 and US $200.
5# System Complexity
Before investing in a CCTV system, you need to assess its complexity and make sure that the degree of complexity is something you can live with and that you can handle in long-term assessment & maintenance.
Special attention should be paid to the software required to use the system. Some of the poor quality CCTV systems usually come with software that is difficult to use and is not easily understandable by people not equipped with technology. The use of such systems means that the safety of the entire installation will be compromised.
Let’s take a look at some of the costs associated with CCTV surveillance and compare them with traditional static/manned surveillance.
Depending on your supplier and your industry, the cost of employee monitoring can range from $15 to $20 per hour, and most companies require you to work at least 8 hours before hiring employees. 8-hour shifts start from 88 pounds per day, and 24-hour shifts start from $360 pounds per day.
These costs have increased rapidly. Let’s take a look at some scenarios:
- One security guard, eight hours per shift, 7 days a week, with a minimum of $45,000 per year, and a minimum of $70,000 per year on Sundays.
- 7 days a week, 24 hours a day on duty, one security guard has a minimum of $130,000 per year.
The Bottom Line
Make sure you have enough cameras to cover your home. Installing unnecessary cameras is not worth it. Prices have fallen in recent years, so the cost of purchasing and installing home surveillance camera systems is now lower than before.
Families who have installed home security camera systems think this investment is very worthwhile, so they don’t have to worry about home security. The visible security camera system will stop most intruders and ensure the safety of your home.
CCTV has always been considered a cost-reducing service. However, in recent years it has become more accessible, and it is undoubtedly an important alternative to traditional manned observation.
